It might not be common knowledge, but cats also need to be socialised. Luckily,you can find out how to socialise your cat here.

WHAT IS CAT SOCIALISATIONAND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

Your cat needs to trust you, others in her environment (animals, humans andespecially children) and get used to her home. You don’t want a scared, distrustfulor even aggressive cat, but rather a trusting, loving cat that’s well-behaved.

TIPS AND INSIGHTS

Each cat is different. Their breed, personality and whether they’ve beensocialised before you got them, all make a difference. Just stay calm, patient andpositive. Also be sure to introduce routines for further structure and comfort.Help your cat get used to sounds, smells and sights as well as her personal areas.

HANDLE YOUR CAT

To avoid raising a scared cat that scratches or bites, handle your kitten in15-minute sessions and let her get used to receiving affection. If you have arescue cat, slowly introduce touch and holding to let her know this interaction isOK. The process may take longer, but it can work.

The top of the head is usually a safe place to start. You can either pick her upnext, or continue to stroke the feet gently with your fingertips. Then, give thebelly, tail and back attention. While you’re doing all of this, talk to your cat in asoft, calm voice. If you notice any agitation you can end the session and giveyour cat some space.

Don’t tolerate. Simply say, “No!” and end the session. If the session went well,treat your kitty. Repeat these sessions a few times every day. Later make eachsession a bit longer. With time, also gently open her mouth and run your fingersacross the gums to make grooming and future vet visits much easier. Be sure toreward good, calm behaviour with a “Good Kitty!”

It might seem obvious, but never hurt your cat or scream at her. It won’t help orfix anything, in fact, you’ll just fuel her fear and increase distrust. Alwaysapproach with care, use a calm, soothing voice and handle her gently.

MAKE TIME TO PLAY WITH YOUR CAT

Deep inside, your kitten or cat is a little predator with a desire to hunt. Theymight be into live creatures or not at all, either way, using a toy with a sprinkle of catnip is a great way to spend quality playtime. Try a few toys to see which one she likes best and play a few times a day, every day. By doing this you can avoid unfavourable predatory behaviour, for example ankle attacks, and strengthen your bond.

Remember: don’t tolerate bad behaviour, for example, attacks during playtime.Rather say “No!” and end the session. Simply try again later.

BRING NEW PEOPLE INTO YOUR CAT’S LIFE

Before you bring around friends and family your cat doesn’t know, make sureyour cat at least trusts you. If you want your cat to start feeling safe andcomfortable around others tell them to also use the right volume and tone ofvoice to communicate when talking to her or holding her.

This process can take time and interaction should not be forced. See if your catapproaches others on her own, if not, give it some time. Often a few visits areneeded before your cat feels comfortable.WHAT IF YOU’RE NOT SUCCESSFUL?

Don’t lose patience. Some cats need more time; others may stay antisocial oronly become socialised 90%. Don’t give up and don’t worry if there’s a nip orscratch every now and then. It may take years, but don’t stop reinforcing goodbehaviour and discouraging bad behaviour.

*Any and all content on PetlifeSA’s website, social media and other platforms are for educational purposes only and should not be viewed or used as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If your pet is experiencing any health issues, please consult a veterinarian professional immediately. Read More